The gesture was partly to celebrate the Towners’ 33-point win over Newlyn, but mainly to show solidarity following the loss of a much-loved footballer and friend.

Lachlan Poulter was the person in everyone’s thoughts, just a week after he died playing the game he loved.

The Dunnstown Recreation Reserve was a sea of red and white as many donned a Sydney Swans beanie just like Poulter used to wear.

Footballers and netballers warmed up in the beanies before the crowd stopped for a minute silence shortly before the start of the senior games. Moments of silence took place across the Central Highlands Football League and players also wore black arm bands.

Even one of the central umpires in the senior football clash at Dunnstown showed his respect for Poulter by carrying out his duties in a Sydney jumper.

Saturday’s victory has elevated the Towners into the top eight, with a win next weekend against Daylesford guaranteeing the side a spot in finals.

Poulter is to be farewelled at a service at the Ballarat Mining Exchange on Thursday from 2pm.